What is the Difference Between Lipoic Acid and Alpha Lipoic Acid?

Lipoic acid and alpha lipoic acid are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two. Lipoic acid, also known as alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), is an organosulfur compound derived from caprylic acid and is naturally produced in the mitochondria of human cells. It serves as a cofactor for several enzymes and is also found in some food sources.

The difference between lipoic acid and alpha lipoic acid lies in their molecular structure. Alpha-lipoic acid is made up of two different forms (enantiomers) called R-lipoic acid and S-lipoic acid. Both forms have different properties:

• R-Lipoic Acid: This is the biologically active component, native to the human body, and is responsible for the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of lipoic acid.
• S-Lipoic Acid: This form is produced chemically and is not very biologically active.

Most lipoic acid supplements contain a 50/50 mix of R-lipoic acid and S-lipoic acid. However, it is only the R-form that is synthesized by the body, bound to proteins, and found in food sources. Alpha-lipoic acid supplements typically consist of the R and S forms in a 50/50 ratio.

In summary, the main difference between lipoic acid and alpha lipoic acid is the molecular structure, with R-lipoic acid being the biologically active form and S-lipoic acid being less active. Most supplements contain a mix of both forms, but only the R-form is synthesized by the body and found in food sources.

Comparative Table: Lipoic Acid vs Alpha Lipoic Acid

The main difference between lipoic acid and alpha lipoic acid lies in their isomerism. Here is a comparison table outlining the differences:

Both lipoic acid and alpha lipoic acid refer to the same compound, but they differ in their isomerism. Lipoic acid is the R isomer, while alpha lipoic acid is a 50/50 mixture of R isomer and S isomer. The human body naturally produces the R isomer, which is essential for its functions.